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Former Cards executive Kuhlmann dies

Former Cards executive Kuhlmann dies

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By John Schlegel
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MLB.com |

Fred Kuhlmann, who served the Cardinals in several executive roles including president and CEO from 1984-91, passed away at his Missouri home Saturday. He was 93.

"We are deeply saddened to hear of Fred's passing," Cardinals chairman and general partner Bill DeWitt Jr. said in a club release. "Fred was the consummate professional, a dedicated executive who shared a real love for the game and the Cardinals. The entire Cardinals organization extends its sincere condolences to Fred's wife, Mildred, his two children, Marilyn and Mark, as well as his seven grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and countless friends."

Kuhlmann was the president and CEO of the ballclub from 1989-91, and he was an executive with the club during its World Series years of '85 and '87. The team also surpassed three million in attendance in '87 while he was an executive working closely with then-owner August A. "Gussie" Busch Jr.

"I am very saddened by the passing of Fred Kuhlmann," Commissioner Bud Selig said in a statement. "Fred was a good friend who loved the game of baseball and the St. Louis Cardinals. He was a loyal advisor who, as a member of the Executive Council, played an important role in changing the economic landscape of the game. On behalf of baseball, I offer my condolences to his family and friends."

Prior to joining the Cardinals in 1984, Kuhlmann was a senior partner at a law firm before joining Anheuser-Busch in '67. He was the general counsel and vice chairman of the board for Anheuser-Busch and chairman of the board of the Civic Center Corporation, the owner and operator of Busch Stadium and other properties in St. Louis.

Born in St. Louis, Kuhlmann grew up near old Sportsman's Park and attended Washington University, where he graduated with A.B. and J.D. degrees. He also received an L.L.M. degree from Columbia University in New York.

A memorial service will be held April 17 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Des Peres, Mo.

John Schlegel is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.